The shocking unearthing of mass graves in Kenya has shed light on the extreme practices of the Good News International Ministries.
Led by Paul Mackenzie, the cult encouraged over 400 followers, including children, to starve to death, allegedly to meet Jesus at the world’s end.
Discovery of a Tragedy
A significant investigation unfolded when Kenyan authorities raided the Good News International Ministries, led by self-proclaimed pastor Paul Nthenge Mackenzie. Mackenzie convinced over 400 followers, including children, to starve themselves to death as preparation for what he claimed to be the ‘end of the world’. This tragic event came to light when the authorities unearthed mass graves in the Shakahola Forest.
The initial investigation began in March 2023, sparked by a report from a man whose wife and daughter had joined the cult and never returned. This led to the discovery of emaciated survivors and hundreds of bodies buried in shallow graves. As of October 2024, authorities had recovered 436 bodies, marking this as one of the deadliest cult-related incidents recorded.
Paul Mackenzie’s Rise
Paul Mackenzie began his journey in the late 1990s as a taxi driver in Nairobi. With a limited education, he became an apprentice to a preacher before founding his church in 2003, which quickly attracted followers through his charismatic and extreme teachings.
Mackenzie first caught national attention by denouncing formal education and vaccinations, calling them ungodly. His controversial views led to his arrest in 2017 after 93 children were rescued from his church. Despite this, he expanded his influence, relocating to the Shakahola Forest in 2019, where he established a secluded commune.
The Impact of Mackenzie’s Teachings
Mackenzie’s teachings inflicted devastating consequences. By October 2024, the death toll reached 448, with 72 rescued individuals in critical condition and 613 people still missing. His doctrines were especially lethal for children who were forced to fast alongside their parents.
Autopsy reports revealed deaths from starvation, strangulation, and blunt-force trauma. Survivors recounted how enforcers patrolled the commune, punishing those who attempted to break their fasts or escape. Mackenzie’s bodyguards were known for their brutality, including regular assaults on women and complete restrictions on children’s consumption of food.
Exploitation During COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated Mackenzie’s apocalyptic warnings. Former cult members disclosed that Mackenzie used the global crisis to further isolate his followers, convincing them that the end was imminent and that starvation was a sacred sacrifice.
Despite this, Mackenzie lived comfortably. Authorities found his residence well-stocked with provisions while his followers starved. This stark disparity highlighted his hypocrisy and control over the followers.
Mackenzie exploited the fear surrounding the pandemic to bolster his radical teachings, resulting in greater adherence among his followers as they viewed deprivation as salvation.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Mackenzie faces a litany of charges, including murder, child torture, and terrorism. In December 2022, he was sentenced to 12 months for distributing unlicensed films, but these charges are minor in comparison to the ongoing trials.
Kenyan authorities classified Good News International Ministries as a criminal organization. Mackenzie, along with 29 associates, faces severe consequences if found guilty of these atrocities. He continues to deny all charges despite the substantial evidence against him.
The Survivors’ Testimonies
Survivors of the cult are grappling with the trauma inflicted upon them. Many recount Mackenzie’s absolute control and the fear he instilled. One survivor courageously fled after witnessing fatalities among children.
Salama Masha, a former follower, came forward about the conditions within the commune after escaping. Her testimony, like others, underlines the deliberate manipulation and abuse orchestrated by Mackenzie.
The harrowing tales of survival and loss underscore the chilling reality of Mackenzie’s cult, serving as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by manipulative ideologies.
As legal proceedings continue, the focus remains on justice for the victims and ensuring such tragedies are prevented in the future.
